A few years ago the pair, both in the Panthers' junior system, were on opposing teams in the local under 16s decider when a brawl erupted at the final whistle.

Crichton - this week named centre of the year in his first full season of NRL - was on the losing side of the St Clair Comets and Minchinbury Jets decider.

And so, full of anger at the loss, he took matters into his own hands and charged at the brawl to get involved.

That's when Leniu unexpectedly intervened.

"We had an all in brawl at the end and Spencer was on the other team," Crichton told AAP.

"Everyone was fully throwing punches, my head was somewhere else, but Spencer was on the other team and he came and pulled me aside.

"He said: 'don't do anything dumb that will suspend you from playing SG Ball'.

"That really brought me closer to him. Ever since then I know he's got my back."

Leniu's effort was worth it - the pair went on to win the SG Ball competition with Penrith that season.

And almost four years later Crichton and Leniu are preparing for their first NRL grand final, against Melbourne on Sunday.

Crichton still lives at home with his family, but is expecting to splash thousands of dollars on tickets so his extended community can attend the match at ANZ Stadium.

The 20-year-old, is so proud of his community, he says the thing he misses most being in the NRL bubble is playing touch with the kids in the area.

The Mt Druitt local has been one of the breakout stars of the competition in 2020 and is on the verge of a State of Origin selection for the NSW Blues.

"It gives me good confidence by family always tell me, not to let it get to me and don't be arrogant about it," he said.

"I'm keeping myself centred and trying to play good footy.

"I really want to play for Samoa because that's my country.

"Mum and dad say if I get the opportunity, Blues is going to be it.

"But I still want to get at least a few games under my belt playing for my country. It would be so good to play for the motherland."

Australian Associated Press